MANILA – Budget watchdog Social Watch Philippines (SWP) has called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto approximately P319 billion in “highly questionable” allocations inserted into the ratified P6.793-trillion 2026 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) during bicameral deliberations. The appeal, issued on January 4, 2026, warns that last-minute adjustments—made despite livestreamed sessions—risk undermining transparency and fueling patronage amid public anger over recent corruption scandals.
SWP co-convenor Dr. Ma. Victoria Raquiza stated: “The 2026 budget is not people-centered… It is extremely disappointing how Congress ignores the public’s anger over unprecedented levels of corruption and the alarming use of public funds to promote patronage politics.” The group urged a veto to “rebuild the integrity of the budget process” and stand with citizens demanding accountability.
Flagged ‘Questionable’ Items (Totaling ~P319B)
SWP identified major increases and insertions prone to misuse or overlap:
- P81.94B increase in DPWH’s Basic Infrastructure Program (BIP) and Sustainable Infrastructure Projects Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG) under Convergence and Special Support Program—potential for overpricing.
- P56.87B Local Government Units assistance fund (threefold bicam increase; prone to patronage).
- P15.33B Disaster Rehabilitation for LGUs (NDRRMF; overlaps with regular programs).
- P10B Presidential Assistance for Farmers/Fisherfolk (DA; discretionary risk).
- P8.9B Farm-to-Market Roads (DA; duplication concerns).
- P5.25B Confidential funds across agencies (beyond security needs).
- P2.73B Tulong Dunong Program (CHED; House insertion/duplication).
- Smaller items like P23M Philippine Pavilion at 2026 UN Climate Conference (CCC; bicam addition).
SWP also proposed options for P243B unprogrammed appropriations (separate but related concern): Retain most with strict reporting, or total veto pending supplemental budget.
The GAB—ratified December 29, 2025—awaits presidential signing (expected early January, possibly January 5). Palace officials note a thorough review; past vetoes (e.g., P194B in 2025) set precedent.
This call echoes broader civil society demands for fiscal reforms amid the flood control probe.
Questionable Items Snapshot (Selected from SWP List):
| Item/Program | Amount (P Billion) | SWP Concern |
|---|---|---|
| DPWH BIP/SIPAG Increase | 81.94 | Overpricing/misuse risk |
| LGU Assistance Fund | 56.87 | Patronage/political discretion |
| Disaster Rehab for LGUs | 15.33 | Overlaps with existing funds |
| Presidential Farmer Assistance | 10 | Discretionary patronage |
| Farm-to-Market Roads (DA) | 8.9 | Duplication |
| Confidential Funds | 5.25 | Beyond security needs |